We love hearing the spooky and sometimes downright creepy tales of monsters all over the world. However, the Riverside Monster strikes close to home for us.
It wasn’t until recently that we discovered a mysterious creature had been living near us in California.
Today, we wanted to share what we learned about the Riverside Monster and why you should watch out for it.
Let’s get to it!
What Is the Riverside Monster?
The Riverside Monster is said to inhabit the Santa Ana River in Southern California. It goes by various names, including the Riverside Bridge Monster and Brain Tickler of Riverside. It’s a mysterious cryptid that individuals have reported seeing only a handful of times.
Its appearances have been around the Main Street Bridge. If you’re visiting the area and cross this bridge, please do so carefully. Some individuals years ago reported it as scratching their vehicle. To make matters more interesting, officers noted scratches on the hood of their vehicle.
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History of the Riverside Monster
The first reported sighting of the Riverside Monster occurred on November 8, 1958. The legend says that Mr. Charles Wetzel was on his way home and was crossing the Main Street Bridge over the Santa Ana River.
Mr. Wetzel noticed that the water was running over the bridge. He slowed down to assess the situation and noticed that the radio on his vehicle had turned to static. That’s when Wetzel reports the Riverside Monster jumped in front of his car.
The monster started clawing at his vehicle to get to him. He told officers he reached for a weapon he kept in his car but didn’t want to break the glass, which was the only thing separating him from the monster. Instead, he opted to run the mysterious creature over with his vehicle.
Oddly, an individual filed an additional report the following night. It was a similar experience in the same area as Wetzel’s encounter. But, there has yet to be another reported sighting since 1958.
What Does the Riverside Monster Look Like?
Unfortunately, the only description we have to work off of is what Charles Wetzel reported to officers. He described it as a tall, skinny creature with long claws on the end of its long arms. In addition, its eyes glowed a bright green color, and its skin was so scaly that it looked like it was covered in leaves.
Many take the description and assume that it looks or behaves like a giant reptile. Fitting with the idea of it being a reptile, Wetzel’s report included that the creature had no ears on its pumpkin-shaped head.
Other Mysterious Beings Living in California
When we heard about the Riverside Monster, we wondered what other monsters lived in California. We were shocked to discover that people have spotted several other mysterious monsters roaming throughout the Golden State.
The Dark Watchers
The Dark Watchers are a legend that inhabits the Santa Lucia Mountains. Those who reported seeing these creatures state they are tall, shadowy silhouettes. They appear human-like and stand on ridges and peaks throughout the mountain range. You’re most likely to spot them at twilight or dusk.
These harmless shadows watch as hikers and other explorers navigate the rugged terrain. When approached, they’ll instantly vanish into thin air.
Stories of the Dark Watchers have been passed down for generations, particularly among Chumash natives. Their existence has now become a part of the local folklore and attracts those in the paranormal world.
Moss Beach Distillery Ghost
Sitting along the Central California coastline is Moss Beach. It’s along Highway 1 and approximately 15 minutes north of Half Moon Bay. To experience this haunting creature, you must visit the Moss Beach Distillery.
Legend states that the spirit, “The Blue Lady,” haunts this establishment. The story is that she died a mysterious and tragic death in the early 20th century. Witnesses claim to have spotted the woman in the restaurant and along the cliffs.
If you feel an unexpected cold spot or hear mysterious footsteps, it could be “The Blue Lady.” Regardless, even if you don’t experience paranormal activity, the restaurant has rave reviews and an excellent view.
Saratoga Gap Bigfoot
Another mysterious creature living in California is the Saratoga Gap Bigfoot. This elusive cryptid is said to live in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Like many accounts of Bigfoot, this monster is said to have an ape-like appearance.
Locals and hikers have reported seeing the Saratoga Gap Bigfoot for several decades. Despite multiple sightings and reports, the monster has been able to evade cameras and capture. If you visit the area, be on the lookout. You may be the first one to snap its picture.
Lake Tahoe’s Tessie
While Lake Tahoe is one of the most beautiful lakes in the United States, a mysterious creature lives there. Reports indicate that this serpent-like creature lives in the deep and cold water. Those lucky enough to spot it state it resembles what some describe as the Loch Ness Monster.
The legend of Tessie has grown over the years, and so have the sightings. Nevertheless, much like Bigfoot and the Loch Ness Monster, hard evidence of it doesn’t exist. On the other hand, that doesn’t keep locals from spreading the word and attracting attention to their beautiful lake.
Fresno Nightcrawlers
The Fresno Nightcrawlers go by a series of names. Some call them the Fresno Aliens, and others the Fresno Stick Men. Whatever you call them, they sound creepy, and you’ll want to watch for them.
Unlike many other cryptids, the Fresno Nightcrawlers were captured on video. These slender, white figures didn’t have arms or heads. The footage captured them awkwardly walking down the road.
Sightings of these creatures have also occurred at Yosemite National Park, approximately an hour and a half north of Fresno. Some believe it’s a hoax and a product of video editing. Others hold out hope that the Fresno Nightcrawlers do exist.
Should You Worry About the Riverside Monster?
Since there have been no sightings since the late 1950s, you likely have nothing to worry about. Contrary to what some believe, that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t keep your eyes open. You never know when the Riverside Monster may decide to make another appearance. Be on the lookout for it and any other mysterious creatures living in the shadows of California.
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